Friday practice update: A tribute to Ruben

Brown was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Thursday with a shoulder injury that will require surgery. He had attributed a renewed passion and love for the game to playing alongside Kreutz since signing as a free agent in 2004. Kreutz’s get-up went beyond the jersey, too. He also wore a blue bandana on his head, a frequent accessory in Brown’s pigskin wardrobe.

As far as the injured at practice Friday, defensive tackle Tommie Harris returned to work with a brace on his left knee. He will start Sunday at Oakland.

Cornerback Nathan Vasher remained sidelined with his partially torn groin muscle and no return date is in sight. Additionally, safety Brandon McGowan (right elbow) and linebacker Rod Wilson (neck) were out. Look for Darrell McClover, who has been inactive for the last four games and five overall, to take Wilson’s spot on special teams.